Inge joins Pirates, looking for role

BRADENTON -- Brandon Inge was trying to navigate his way around the Pirates clubhouse Saturday morning. That will be his theme throughout spring training--figuring out where he is going with the Pirates.

The 35-year-old former Detroit Tiger third baseman who signed a minor league contract with an invitation to major league spring training with the Pirates began his orientation with the team Saturday after arriving at Pirate City late Friday. He passed his physical and took the field on the second day of the Pirates' full squad workouts.

"I've never felt more like a rookie in my life, coming to a new environment, learning all the people," Inge said. "The guys in the clubhouse have been very welcoming. I like it so far. It's a good atmosphere."

Inge will not have a regular position, but he will be chomping at the bit for an opportunity to make the Pirates' roster, as a utility player, however that may occur.

"There are spots that are going to be open," Inge said. "No matter what, on a daily basis there's always going to be someone who needs a day ... right-handed, left-handed matchups.

"Over the years what I've seen in spring training, you never know what's going to happen," he said. "You can have your team completely set in stone and by the end of spring training, injuries and a guy that proves himself better than what you thought, you can have a completely different team on paper. I go play and don't worry about that stuff and everything will fall in place."

Inge underwent arthroscopic surgery on his throwing shoulder in September.

"I have no pain," he said. "I can throw. I guess I have to set my sights on April. There's no reason to get hurt in the process when you don't really need to and make sure everything is fully healed."

He hit .226 with 11 home runs and 52 RBI in 74 games with the A's after being released by the Tigers in April. Detroit went on to win the American League championship before being swept by the San Francisco Giants in the World Series.

"I understand how baseball is, the business side of everything," he said. "I don't hold grudges on that stuff. I was rooting for them."

Tom Balog

Tom Balog is a reporter for HT Golf. Contact him via email, or at (941) 315-0764.

Last modified: February 19, 2013
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